Oscietra Expectations More Realistic Ahead of Spring Racing Season

It would seem as though following in the footsteps of a famous parent is as difficult for horses as it is for humans, with the possible exception that a human has some options for the path to pursue in following a famous father or mother, while a racehorse cannot seek fame and fortune as a footy player.

Black Caviar’s first foal, Osciertra, debuted to much fanfare at the start of 2017. She lost the first time out, finishing third, so she was immediately forgotten and the chance to duplicate her mum’s success evaporated immediately.

She may be a late bloomer and in need of more time to mature, as she did appear on the smallish side when she first took to the turf.

Trainer David Hayes is taking her to Geelong to run on the synthetic track to permit her to get accustomed to that surface, with plans to let her resume racing.

Said Hayes, “We are planning a low key return for her to try and get a win.” If she can handle the track then we’ll return there soon after and run in a maiden.”

Osciertra will then move on to some black-type races in the spring, but the expectations for her would best be describes as muted, with talk of racing at Group level being entirely absent.

A photo of Hayes and Oscietra published online was truly worth 1,000 words. We understand that Hayes is a good-sized bloke, but still, he was able to stand comfortably alongside Oscietra with his arm over her back, her back barely above the pit of Hayes’ arm.

For Oscietra, being saddled with huge expectations simply because of the phenomenal abilities of Black Caviar seems a bit unfair, but we truly hope the young filly continues to mature and perhaps hit her stride as a four or five-year-old.